Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour Dumps Labour Party for ADC, Calls for United Opposition Ahead of 2027 Elections

Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour Dumps Labour Party for ADC, Calls for United Opposition Ahead of 2027 Elections

 

 

Former Lagos State governorship candidate Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour has officially defected from the Labour Party (LP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signalling a new chapter in opposition politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.

 

Rhodes-Vivour made the announcement at a ceremony in Lagos on Saturday, describing the move as part of a broader coalition aimed at challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

 

“I am pleased to become part of this family. I look forward to the union and governance that this party will bring to Nigerians,” Rhodes-Vivour said. “My prayer is that God will grant our leaders and the party structure the wisdom to define a new path for our country.”

 

The former LP governorship candidate emphasised the need for a united opposition. “We cannot afford to divide the opposition going into the next election. We must come together, united through a robust coalition that will stand a chance in 2027 to deliver this country,” he added.

 

The defection followed an attempt by security operatives to block access to the initial venue in Alimosho Local Government Area, despite organisers notifying authorities in advance. The event was later moved to another location within the area.

 

George Ashiru, Chairman of the ADC in Lagos, hailed Rhodes-Vivour’s decision as a historic affirmation of the party’s coalition. “We are not affirming one man; we are affirming a movement. What Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour represents is the leadership of a movement that shook Lagos in the last election,” Ashiru said.

 

Professor Ola Olateju, representing former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, urged party members to believe in their capacity to provide an alternative for Nigerians. “ADC is not just a political party; it is a movement of the people. We are moving to rescue Nigeria,” he said.

 

The ADC coalition, officially formed in July, has sought to bring together opposition parties and prominent figures to build a formidable third force ahead of the 2027 polls. Analysts say Rhodes-Vivour’s defection could strengthen the coalition and reshape the political landscape in Lagos and beyond.